Microsoft Sets May End Date for Skype After 14-Year Run

Before Zoom became the default for online communication, there was Skype—a platform that introduced many of us to the wonders of internet-based phone and video calls. But after two decades of service, Microsoft has announced that Skype will officially bow out on May 27, 2025. The announcement leaves long-time users scrambling for alternatives.

For users like Pat from Michigan, who wrote in saying, "We use Skype every weekend to communicate with our family in Ireland," the news is understandably unsettling. But Microsoft’s decision comes as no surprise to tech watchers. With fierce competition from Zoom, WhatsApp, and others, Skype's relevance has dwindled over the years.

Microsoft explained that Skype’s data will remain accessible until January 2026 for exporting or deletion. Existing users are encouraged to transition to Microsoft Teams Free, which offers video calls, messaging, and a streamlined migration of Skype data, including contacts and chat history. Teams even allows you to log in with your Skype credentials, making the switch relatively painless.

So, what are the top contenders to fill Skype's shoes? Here are some of the most popular alternatives:

• WhatsApp: Known for its free voice and video calls with end-to-end encryption, WhatsApp has been a favorite for personal and international communication since 2009.
• Google Meet: Perfect for those already in the Google ecosystem, this platform offers free video conferencing for up to 100 participants, integrating seamlessly with Gmail and Google Calendar.
• Zoom: The pandemic-era darling continues to dominate with its user-friendly interface and robust features, including free 40-minute calls for up to 100 participants.
• Signal: Privacy-conscious users will appreciate Signal's end-to-end encryption for messages and calls, making it a secure alternative.
• Discord: Originally for gamers, Discord has evolved into a versatile communication tool with free voice channels, screen sharing, and excellent audio quality.

For those feeling nostalgic, Microsoft Teams might be the easiest transition. Not only does it carry over your Skype data, but it also offers a familiar interface and similar functionalities.

As for your Skype data, take note: You can export your chat history and call logs in .tar or .json formats. While there’s no direct import tool for other platforms, Microsoft Teams will automatically migrate Skype data for seamless continuity.

With Skype’s farewell date looming, it’s a good idea to explore these alternatives and make the switch sooner rather than later. Sure, we’ll miss that iconic sky-blue interface, but the digital world isn’t short on options to keep us connected—whether for work, family, or just catching up with friends across the globe.

Are you a Skype loyalist? Or have you already embraced one of its competitors? Let us know your thoughts.